Location: Eastern Worcester County, MA | Metro: Worcester, MA HUD Metro FMR Area
Based on 1% Rule: A+ (≥1.5%) | A (≥1.2%) | B (≥1.0%) | C (≥0.8%) | D (≥0.6%) | F (<0.6%)
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,480 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,490 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,950 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,720 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,050 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,538 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,963 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,280 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,494 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,490 | $300,557 | 0.5% | F |
| 2BR | $1,950 | $419,956 | 0.46% | F |
| 3BR | $2,720 | $475,527 | 0.57% | F |
| 4BR | $3,050 | $539,495 | 0.57% | F |
| 5BR | $3,538 | $572,144 | 0.62% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The potential risks for investing in Section 8 properties in ZIP code 01510 in Clinton, MA, are significant. Tenant turnover poses a substantial challenge, with market rents averaging at $2,259 compared to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1,690 for FY 2024. This discrepancy indicates that tenants receiving vouchers may struggle to cover the higher market rents, leading to increased turnover and instability.
Vacancy exposure is another critical concern. The days on market (DOM) for rental listings in this area is currently unavailable, which suggests either an unusually tight rental market or a lack of comprehensive data. Either way, it's important to note that vacancies can be costly, especially when considering the deferred maintenance exposure. With a typical home value of $446,545 and a median income of $89,781, landlords must be prepared to handle necessary repairs and maintenance without relying on high-income tenants to offset these costs.
Despite these challenges, there are factors that mitigate the risks. Clinton, MA, has a relatively high renter share of 45.3%, indicating a strong demand for rental housing. This high concentration of renters often translates into a robust demand for Section 8 vouchers, which can help stabilize occupancy rates and ensure a steady stream of income.
Verdict: Moderate risk for a first-time Section 8 landlord in ZIP 01510, Clinton, MA.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). Demographics from U.S. Census (2024).
About FMR: Fair Market Rent (FMR) is used to determine payment standards for the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program, initial renewal rents for some expiring project-based Section 8 contracts, and rent ceilings for HOME Investment Partnerships.